Postdoc in Paleoproteomics

Globe Institute
Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
University of Copenhagen

We are looking for a highly motivated and dynamic researcher for a 2-year postdoctoral researcher position in palaeoproteomics to commence on 01/02/2026, or as soon as possible afterwards. The position is part of the DFF Sapere Aude project MiddleEarth, which aims provide unique insights into the hominin occupation histories in Central Eurasia by applying palaeoproteomic methods to a selected number of archaeological sites in the region. The position is based in a research group composed of evolutionary and molecular biologists, palaeoanthropologists and archaeologists with a fascination for human evolution research.

Information on the Globe Institute can be found at https://globe.ku.dk.

Your job
We seek an enthusiastic, creative individual with a strong background in palaeoproteomics or ancient biomolecular research. You will join our research group in the context of MiddleEarth, a DFF Sapere Aude-funded research project that aims to provide palaeoproteomic insights into the dynamic occupation histories of Middle and Late Pleistocene hominins in Central Eurasia. The postdoctoral position is dedicated towards the extraction and analysis of hominin proteomes from several existing hominin fossils. You will be responsible for sampling, laboratory extractions, and data analysis of hominin specimens, and will collaborate with internal and external collaborators. Based on mutual agreement, there is the opportunity for exploring individual research interests and initiatives within the MiddleEarth project. The position involves travel to Central Eurasia.

Our research
The Biomolecular Palaeoanthropology group studies human evolution across the last one million years, addressing questions of relevance at the intersection of biology, palaeoanthropology, and archaeology. In particular, we have strong interests in 1) understanding the phylogenetic and population genetic relationships between past hominins within this period, 2) exploring the biomolecular content of the hominin skeleton in life history frameworks, and 3) recovering behavioural information contained in zooarchaeological datasets through biomolecular approaches. We develop and utilize a range of biomolecular methods, primarily the analysis of ancient proteins through protein mass spectrometry. We strive to integrate the generated insights with additional lines of (bio)molecular and archaeological evidence. Further information on the research group can be found at https://globe.ku.dk/research/evogenomics/welker-group/. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Frido Welker or other group members for (in)formal questions!

Profile
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic scientist with the following competencies and experience:

Essential experience and skills:

• You have, or will soon have, a PhD in palaeoproteomics, archaeological sciences, or a related field.
• You have laboratory skills in in palaeoproteomics and associated computational data analysis.
• You have an active interest in human evolution.
• Proficient communication skills and a demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in teams.
• Excellent English language skills.

Desirable but not essential experience and skills:

• Experience with the development of computational solutions to analysing (palaeo)proteomic data.
• Knowledge of proteomics or protein mass spectrometry.
• You have an excellent scientific track-record, including publication(s) in high-quality, peer-reviewed international journals.

Inquiries about the position can be made to Dr. Frido Welker (frido.welker@sund.ku.dk).

Foreign applicants may find this link useful: www.ism.ku.dk (International Staff Mobility).

The position is open from 1 February 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation. Appointment will be based on merit alone.

Terms of employment
The average weekly working hours are 37 hours per week.

The position is limited to a period of 2 years.

Salary, pension and other conditions of employment are set in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Taxation and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) or other relevant organisation. Currently, the monthly salary starts at 34,823 DKK/approx. 4,600 EUR (November 2025 level). Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated. The employer will pay an additional 18.07 % to your pension fund.

Foreign and Danish applicants may be eligible for tax reductions if they hold a PhD degree and have not lived in Denmark the last 10 years.

The position is covered by the Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities 2020.

Application procedure

• A motivation letter (max. one page)
• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Complete publication list

The deadline for applications is 7 November 2025, 23:59 CET.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Interviews are expected to be held in mid November.